Milwaukee-based Robert W. Baird & Co. Inc. and Axis Capital, the investment banking subsidiary of Axis Bank, one of the leading private sector banks in India, announced a strategic alliance for investment banking services, with an initial focus on cross-border mergers and acquisitions (M&A) between India and Europe, and India and the United States.
Through the alliance, the two investment banks will enhance their respective offerings by leveraging each bank’s strong knowledge of M&A and capital markets and specific industry sectors, as well as their deep corporate relationships within those sectors.
The alliance between Baird and Axis Capital is on an exclusive basis. While the initial focus is cross-border M&A, the relationship between the two banks also encompasses other investment banking engagements, subject to necessary regulatory approvals, such as public offerings in the United States and private placements of equity.
Steve Booth, director of Baird Investment Banking, said, “We are delighted to be partnering with Axis Capital, a partner who shares our values, including providing the best client service. This strategic alliance broadens Baird’s global footprint, further expands our international reach, and enhances our overall M&A franchise by strengthening our ability to serve clients around the world. Along with our growing presence in China and recent addition of a senior banker focused on Japan M&A, this partnership represents another example of Baird’s ongoing investments in its global investment banking platform.”
Manish Chokhani, chief executive officer of Axis Capital, said, “In the evolving structure of global investment banking where specialized advisory firms are of great value – we believe Baird’s ambition to be the best middle market financial services firm in the world matches our ambitions for Axis Capital. As the international aspirations of Indian companies grow, their need for high-quality strategic advice will gain importance. With a view to servicing this need, Axis Capital is gaining a strong partner across key geographies thereby giving our clients expertise and access.”
